SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The city of Springfield, Illinois Department of Transportation, and Sangamon County signed an intergovernmental agreement in December, paving the way for preparation of a location study and environmental document for improvements to accommodate high-speed and freight rail traffic in Springfield, Ill. Hanson Professional Services Inc. was selected to prepare the high-speed rail corridor study, analyzing alternative rail corridors to accommodate the anticipated increase in traffic. The study should be completed in spring 2011.

Since the 1960s, Hanson has provided an array of services to the railroad industry. In addition to environmental services, the firm’s rail experience includes new and rehabilitated structures, capacity improvements, intermodal facilities, rail-to-ship transloading facilities, fueling and maintenance facilities, railroad yard design/reconfiguration, rail loading/unloading facilities, and commuter rail and facilities.

Hanson is a national, employee-owned consulting firm providing engineering, architecture, planning and allied services. The Springfield-area office is located at 1525 S. Sixth St., Springfield, IL 62703. The office may be reached by phone: (217) 788-2450 or fax: (217) 788-2503.